Warren Gatland has left his role as Wales head coach by mutual agreement, the Welsh Rugby Union has confirmed.
The three-time Grand Slam winner ended his second turbulent spell just two games into the Six Nations, following a record barren run of 14 straight defeats in Test rugby.
Cardiff head coach Matt Sheratt has been named as interim coach for the remainder of the tournament.
Gatland's first stint in the role - between 2007 and 2019 - included three Grand Slams and guiding Wales to the top of the world rankings.
But it's been a different story since he returned in 2022 to replace fellow countryman Wayne Pivac - with Wales as favourites to pick up the Six Nations wooden spoon for the second year running.
Former Australia coach Michael Cheika, Glasgow's Franco Smith, and Ireland interim Simon Easterby are touted as potential successors - with the WRU aiming to name a new permanent head coach in time for the summer tour to Japan.
In a statement, Gatland said: "I would like to thank the WRU board for the faith shown in me after a tough campaign throughout 2024 and affording me the time and resource to try to turn things around for this 2025 tournament."
“We have worked hard, we have a talented young squad that is developing and have been desperate to turn potential into results but now is the right time for a change."
“I’ve reached the end of this particular chapter, but I remain grateful to all those in Wales who have supported me, to all the players who have played for me and to all those around me, especially my management team, who have contributed to what we have achieved over the years. I wish whoever takes over all the best for the future."
“Finally, I want to say a big thank you to the Welsh fans.”
WRU chief executive Abi Tierney - who rejected a resignation offer from Gatland following last year's Six Nations - said she expressed her gratitude to Gatland "for his service to Welsh rugby" and "called upon the nation" to back interim coach Sherratt for their three remaining games of the championship.
She said: "The WRU and Warren have agreed that making this change now is in the best interests of the Wales squad as it continues to compete in the 2025 Six Nations tournament."
“We are grateful to Warren for all he has done for the game in Wales. He remains our longest-serving and most decorated head coach in terms of the silverware he has won."
“Matt Sherratt takes over at a pivotal time. It is a credit to him that he has not hesitated to answer Wales’s call and is also testament to the strong relationship that now exists throughout the Welsh professional game that Cardiff Rugby are fully supportive of the move."
“Matt will return to Cardiff Rugby after the Six Nations in order to concentrate his efforts on what is already a promising campaign for our capital club."
“Our intention is to have a permanent appointment in place before this summer’s two-Test tour to Japan, with all options open.”
Sherratt, who took charge at Cardiff in 2023, has overseen the emergence of Vale stars Mason Grady and Evan Lloyd as Wales internationals - with Penarth-born hooker Lloyd making his first full starts in both of Gatland's final games in charge.
It's understood a press conference will be held at the Vale Hotel in Hensol this afternoon.
Wales face Ireland at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday 22nd February.
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